A couple of weeks ago while I was at our parish for the Fall Regional Encounter, a gentleman there for the funeral of his mother asked me “what is Cursillo?” Being aware of his reason for being there, I was careful not to take a lot of his time but gave him a brief description of Cursillo. You never know when you will be asked, or quite what the person asking really needs to know, but it is necessary to have the words that best fit you to tell about Cursillo.

Are you able to briefly describe Cursillo to someone? The main purpose of Cursillo is two-fold: to continually develop a deeper relationship with Jesus, and to develop Christian community.

Another important component of the description is your personal story. The early disciples knew the power of personal witness in conveying the message of Jesus. With enthusiasm they willingly shared what their relationship with Jesus meant to their lives, how His friendship had transformed them to be better people. Your personal story of how Jesus is working in many areas of your life is the best way to share the blessing that Cursillo is to you.

Sharing how God is working in your life takes wisdom, courage, and practice. It is not always easy to share something that feels so deeply personal, but that is exactly what Jesus wants us to do. It is how we reflect Him that encourages others to want to know Him better in their own lives. Sharing your personal story is easier if you think about these three components: I was, He did, and I am.

First “I was”--- think about a time before your personal relationship with Jesus came about --- ask yourself these questions: What did I live for then? What was missing in my life? Was I happy and joyful?

Second “He did” --- think about a meaningful encounter(s) that led you to want Jesus to become more a part of your life --- ask yourself these questions: Who is Jesus to me? Why did I want to get closer to him?

Third “I am” --- think about how your life changed after Jesus became a greater part of it --- ask yourself these questions: What is my life like now compared to before my relationship with Christ? Why is this important to me?

When you reflect on these aspects, you will be able to develop a personal testimony that tells your listener truly what being a Cursillista means to you. At School of Leaders in November, several 4th dayers will be sharing their two minute “elevator speech” describing Cursillo to someone they just encountered. Come, learn, and share how we can tell more effectively what Cursillo means to each of us.

God bless you friends!

Larry & Jeanne Bendzinski